Rob has over 30 years experience working in the mental health and substance abuse fields, in school and clinic settings. He completed his Master's Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling (focus on Addictions) in 1980, and before entering the treatment field, worked with state and county agencies in the prevention and intervention of high risk adolescent behaviors, both in Ohio and North Carolina.

He has been married for 26 years and has one son. He is the oldest in a family of five siblings. Both his parents are deceased. A strong avocational interest for Rob is playing guitar in a band.

How to begin:It can start with a simple phone call to discuss the particular needs/concerns you have. If you wish, Rob can arrange a time for a free 20 minute phone call consultation to explore your situation, and set up a plan of action. That initial contact can be expanded with an optional face-to-face 30 minute consultation, at a reduced rate. It is often the case that once clients initiate intention for change, new ideas and possibilities present themselves for consideration.

What you can expect if you see Rob for counseling:Rob will want you to tell "your story" about why you decided to come to counseling. On that first session he'll gather information to assist in better understanding your situation, and in formulating a plan for improving it. When the issue relates to adolescents, he'll want to speak with both the adolescent and parent(s), and possibly other siblings at some point in the treatment protocol. Rob will make recommendations about what the most appropriate next step might be to resolve the treatment issue(s).

Rob's Professional Orientation:Rob works from a systems perspective, and consequently the focus is understanding and facilitating healthy relationship skills. Whether in group, individual, or family therapy modes, he'll invite clients to bring their issues into the therapy room, while reinforcing appropriate problem solving techniques. "Hands on, but Safety First" is the approach. Rob is trained in Structural and Strategic Family Therapy Techniques as well as Cognitive-Behavioral, and Motivation Enhancement Techniques.